Current Affairs

Issue

India’s Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) has fallen to a seven-month low of 55.4 from 57.5 in February. 

 

Background

The index reflects the slowdown in the manufacturing sector that has escalated post the surge in new covid cases.

 

Details

• The results indicated that the slowdown emerged from COVID-19 restrictions related to workforces.

• The rate of contraction was average but it was quickest since September 2020. It also showed loss of jobs in the sector.

• The rate of inflation was one of the strongest in recent years due to rise in prices of chemical, metal, plastic, rubber and textile.

 

Indication of index

• Though PMI has slowed, it has remained in acceptable limits. The further lockdown measures could impact activity.

• The prediction that vaccination programme would control the disease and enhance output growth will act as a positive confidence building measure.

 

Purchasing Managers Index

• Purchasing Managers Index shows the direction of economic trends in the manufacturing and service sectors of the economy.

• It includes a diffusion index that indicates whether market conditions are expanding, staying the same, or contracting.

• The aim of the PMI is to give information about current and future business conditions to company decision makers, analysts, and investors.